Although we visited Athens and the area around Pilos, Greece a few years ago, I really want to visit one of the islands. Santorini is my top choice; the white buildings against the blue water are stunning.

Fortunately we’ll be visiting Maui in December for a week of relaxation. Although I’ve been before, I’m excited to return. Relaxing on the beach, eating fresh pineapple and fish, and sipping frozen cocktails are all in my not so distant future.

After watching a documentary about Patagonia a few years ago (180 South), I fell in love with the area and added it to my travel wish list. The mix of mountains and water, activity and relaxation can’t be beat.

Doesn’t everyone want to stay in a hut over the water once in their life? For mine, I’d choose the Maldives. As the lowest country in terms of elevation, experts predict the islands will cease to exist in the future. It would be great to visit before that happens.

Havasupai Falls is the beauty that awaits after an 11 mile hike down the Grand Canyon. I didn’t even know it existed until I heard some friends talking about it a few years ago. Although the hike would be strenuous, the reward would be well worth it.

10. Australia

Australia is a big country so I’d need to narrow it down a bit, but I’d love to spend two weeks traveling around. The hiking opportunities combined with sightseeing some of the major cities sounds like a perfect balance to me.